How to Fix the PIN Grayed Out Issue in Windows 11

In Windows 11, a Personal Identification Number (PIN) offers a convenient and secure way to quickly access your system. However, it can be unsettling to see the option to delete or repair your PIN suddenly grayed out.

In this article, we will discuss the methods to resolve the issue of "Remove PIN" being grayed out in Windows 11, providing you with practical insights and step-by-step guidance to regain control over your PIN settings effortlessly.

Delve into the extensive troubleshooting guide to uncover the secrets of a flawless Windows 11 experience.

How to Remove the PIN in Windows 11 (Grayed Out)

You can fix the grayed-out PIN issue in Windows 11 with just a click. Yes, you read that right. The Partition Master Professional is a third-party tool with a password reset option that sorts this out for you.

This user-friendly solution works for Windows users of all technical levels, ensuring a smooth and effective process for removing the PIN (grayed out). Here are the steps to remove the PIN (grayed out) in Windows 11:

Insert the target USB flash drive into the computer, run Partition Assistant and click "Toolbox" > "Password Reset".

Step 2: A message will appear. Read it carefully, then click on Create to start creating the bootable media.

Click Create.

Step 3. Select the correct USB flash drive and click Create and Yes. This will erase all data on the USB flash drive, so back up anything important first.

Select the USB drive

Step 4. Be patient. After the password reset USB is created, plug it into the locked computer. Restart the locked computer and press F2/F8/F11/Del to enter BIOS and set the bootable USB as the boot drive. The system should then boot from the USB automatically.

Step 5: After rebooting, open Partition Master again and select “Password Reset.” All of your computer's accounts will appear on the screen. Click on the target account and select “Reset & Unlock.”

Step 6: Tap “Confirm” when prompted to proceed. This will erase your passcode.

So download the Partition Master tool right away to regain control over your Windows 11 PIN settings. You'll also benefit from other perks of using the Partition Master tool, such as backing up your data or fixing other drive issues on your PC.

How to Fix the Removed PIN (Grayed Out) Issue on Windows 11

In this section, you'll find more solutions to fix the grayed-out Remove PIN option in Windows 11. So, follow the step-by-step guides below:

• Disable Windows Hello login with a Microsoft account
• Disable password-less sign-in for a Microsoft account
• Remove the PIN through the "I forgot my PIN" window

If you found this guide helpful in resolving the removed PIN grayed out issue on Windows 11, don't forget to share it with others who might need it.

1. Disable Windows Hello sign-in for Microsoft accounts

Disabling Windows Hello for Microsoft accounts is a viable solution. This practical method can help you resolve the grayed-out PIN issue. Follow these steps:

Step 1: Press Win + I to open "Settings."

Step 2: Click “Account” and then select “Login Options.”

Step 3: Under the Sign-in options, find Windows Hello, and turn off Require Windows Hello sign-in for Microsoft accounts.

Step 4. Follow the on-screen instructions to verify your activity.

Step 5: Restart your computer for the changes to take effect.

That should do it. If not, try the following steps.

2. Disabling a Microsoft Account without a Password

To resolve the issue where PIN is grayed out, consider disabling passwordless Microsoft accounts. Follow these quick steps to fix the problem.

Step 1: Open the Settings app on your Windows 11 computer.

Step 2: Go to your “Account” settings, and then click on the “Your Information” page.

Step 3: From the “Settings” section, choose “Accounts.”

Step 4: Click the "Security" tab.

Click "Advanced security settings."

Step 6. In the Additional Security section, turn off the Passwordless Accounts option.

Step 7: Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the setup.

Step 8: Restart your computer to apply the changes.

Once you've done that, the “Delete” button should be back in the “PIN (Windows Hello)” settings on Windows 11. Just make sure not to change any other settings here, as doing so might cause data loss.

3. Remove the PIN using the "I forgot my PIN" screen

With Windows 11, you can choose the option "I forgot my PIN" to either modify or remove it. This will require you to verify your user identity with your Microsoft account information.

Step 1: On the sign-in screen, click on “Forgot PIN.”

Step 2: Verify your identity with another method, usually your Microsoft account password.

Step 3: Follow the on-screen instructions to verify.

Step 4: After verification, set up a new PIN or choose another sign-in option.

Step 5: When complete, your old PIN will have been successfully removed.

I hope you've successfully resolved the "Remove PIN (grayed out)" issue on Windows 11.

Why Can't I Remove PIN in Windows 11 (Grayed Out)

In this section, you'll learn about the importance of fixing a grayed-out PIN in Windows 11. A locked PIN prevents users from signing in and safeguards against potential security risks.

Here is a brief primer on the importance of the gray PIN and some of the key issues at stake:

• Conflict with security policy: The PIN removal option might be difficult to use due to certain security restrictions.
• File system errors: Occasionally, the file system storing the PIN information can become unstable, causing the deletion option to vanish.
• Temporary Credential Manager issue: The Credential Manager, which manages logins, might experience a glitch temporarily affecting the PIN removal functionality.
• Cryptographic protocol errors: Complicated encryption protocols can also lead to unusual behavior with the PIN removal option.

Follow the steps provided to resolve the issue of a grayed-out and unusable PIN. Don't forget to share these helpful tips with those who might need them.

Conclusions

Addressing PIN-related issues in Windows 11 is crucial for both system security and accessibility. This article provides comprehensive solutions tailored to users of all experience levels, emphasizing the importance of resolving these issues to ensure a secure and seamless Windows 11 experience.

AOMEI Partition Assistant is a highly recommended simple, user-friendly solution. You must pay close attention to these PIN-related issues to keep your computer environment secure and stable.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about "Remove PIN (grayed out and unavailable)" in Windows 11

To better understand the PIN issues related to Windows 11, here are some frequently asked questions (FAQs) and their answers:

How do I turn off the PIN in Windows 11?

You can disable the PIN in Windows 11 through a few simple steps. Follow the procedure below:

Step 1. In Windows 11, go to Settings.

Step 2: Go to “Account,” then “Sign-in options,” and then choose “PIN.”

Step 3: Choose “Remove.”

Important: Use other sign-in options to help protect your account and keep your data and computer safe.

**2. Why is there no PIN option in Windows 11?**

Conflicts with security settings, issues with the file system, or temporary problems with the Credential Manager can prevent you from using your PIN. The best solution is to reset the PIN and sign in again.

3. How do I forget my PIN in Windows 11?

On the sign-in screen, click on “I forgot my PIN,” then verify your identity and follow the on-screen steps to create a new PIN or sign in another way. You can also reset your PIN and sign back into your Windows computer with the new one.